Fijian leader Frank Bainimarama is stepping down as head of the military, to focus on contesting this year's election.
The leader of the country's 2006 military coup has served as both head of the military and interim prime minister since 2007.
But a new constitution, passed late last year, makes it illegal for the members of the military to be politically active.
As such, Commodore Bainimarama is resigning to head a new political party and stand in elections expected in September.
He has promised human rights and basic services, but opponents continue to accuse him of human rights abuses and political repression.
